Quarterly

BPCATT01PTQ636N • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

733,000,000.00

Year-over-Year Change

50.82%

Date Range

1/1/1996 - 4/1/2014

Summary

The Quarterly trend measures the U.S. balance of payments current account, a key indicator of the nation's international economic transactions and position.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

The balance of payments current account tracks the net flow of goods, services, and income between the U.S. and other countries. It's a crucial metric for assessing the overall health and competitiveness of the U.S. economy.

Methodology

The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.

Historical Context

Economists and policymakers closely monitor the current account balance to understand U.S. trade dynamics and global financial flows.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. current account has run a deficit since the 1970s.
  • The deficit reached a record high of over 6% of GDP in 2005-2006.
  • The current account deficit has narrowed in recent years but remains substantial.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: The Quarterly balance of payments current account tracks the net flow of goods, services, and income between the U.S. and other countries.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: The current account balance is a crucial indicator of the U.S. economy's international competitiveness and financial position.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected and calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Economists and policymakers monitor the current account to understand trade dynamics and global financial flows, informing policy decisions.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released quarterly with a lag of several months.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Balance of Payments: Current Account (BPCATT01PTQ636N), retrieved from FRED.